Celebrate 'Esperienza Italiana' 2015 at Sage Bar in Makati Shangri-la

The finest things in life that Italy has to offer arrives at Makati Shangri-La through Esperienza Italiana (Experience Italy) 2015, a week-long festival that promises a total sensory experience of the Italian culture here in Manila. And just last October 6, a pre-event was held at the Sage Bar to highlight Aperitivo Italiano, an antipasti buffet with selected drinks that are both intoxicating and innovative.

Alain Borgers, Area Manager of Shangri-La Philippine Properties and
General Manager of Makati Shangri-la

Alain Borgers, General Manager of Shangri-La Philippine Properties and General Manager of Makati Shangri-La is pleased to invite their guests to partake in an authentic Italian experience in the grand halls of the venue.

Marco Tiraferri, Executive Assistant Manager for F&B

Aside from my recent Aperitivo Italiano experience (wherein the actual Aperitivo Italiano event will commence on October 19, 21 and 23 from 6pm to 10pm at Sage Bar), other activities during the festival also include L'Artisan dinner by Michelin-starred Chef Rocco Iannone, and an exclusive concert entitled That's Amore featuring the Manila Symphony Orchestra.

Aperitivo Italiano features a selection of Italian antipasti, crostinis, sausages, pasta and special kinds of cheese. Pair it with the Spritz, an interesting mix of liquor (such as Vermouth or Aperol), Dry White Wine or the red Prosecco, either orange/lemon/olives and a splash of soda water to mellow down and ease up the strong flavors of the first two ingredients.

As for me, I had a great time feasting on unlimited Cured Prosciutto Gallioni which is sliced fresh from the bone, diced Cured Parmigiano Reggiano, Olives and other cured meats (plus, the prosciutto bread sticks are amazingly additive!).

You can also choose from either pasta or this magnificent bowl of Risotto Acquerello with Saffron. This dish is smooth, creamy and filling. This is definitely what every Italian should be proud of having this dish as part of their culture.

I've also had a few pieces of Crostini topped with Smoked Salmon, Cream Cheese and Dill. A delicious, classic combination indeed!

Here is my huge glass of Spritz, which made me a teeny bit tipsy as the night progressed. It's fruity notes are so addicting that it's a disgrace not to have a second glass of this.

And on top of that, we even had a chance to make our own Spritz during that night! I wasn't that energetic to make one for myself though, as I was focusing more on the food hahahaha!

To participate in the upcoming activities for Esperienza Italiana 2015, see this quick recap on ticket prices and inclusions below:

Aperitivo Italiano - October 19, 21 and 23 at Sage Bar from 6pm to 10pmTicket Price: Php1,500++ including antipasti buffet and selected drinks

"A Made In Italy" experience on October 23 (no purchase requirement)- an exhibit featuring luxury brands like Paul & Shark, Piquadro, Ducati, Ferrari and more

That's Amore - a transformation of the Makati Shangri-La's lounge into an Italian musical theatre; venue is at the Lobby Lounge, featuring the 30-piece Manila Symphony Orchestra along with three tenors and one soprano. They will be performing contemporary and classic songs illustrating the Italian's vitality and passion for life (and guests can enjoy a pre-show aperitif in the main lobby at 6:30pm)

Ticket price: Php1,850++

For inquiries and reservations, you may call (63 2) 8138888, e-mail rric.slm@shangri-la.com or watch out for updates on Makati Shangri-La Manila on Facebook below: